7th March 2024 - Andy M spotted what appeared to be the size and shape of a Collared Dove, but with completely dark grey plumage, rather than the more normal pinky brown-grey colour. It seemed to retain the usual dark neck ring of the Collared Dove, as well as the usual red eye and red legs. Additionally, the plumage appeared to be soaked through, although over the time the bird was feeding it did not seem to change or dry out. Otherwise it was behaving and feeding perfectly normally, and could fly without problem.
It's possible this bird is melanistic, which is caused by a genetic mutation that results in an increased amount of dark pigmentation in some, or in this case all, of the feathers. It is unclear why the plumage appears wet through. Andy emailed the BTO to seek their opinion.
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